IOWA ASSOCIATION OF RAILROAD PASSENGERS
3349 Southgate Court Southwest #108
Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52404-5424
(319) 362-6824 Voice, (319) 362-7734 Fax (Wulff Home 515-276-8888)
www.simpson.edu/~iarp/
hwulff2768@aol.com
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 02/29/00
Rail Passengers Laud New Amtrak Proposal
(Cedar Rapids, Iowa)-öThe president of the Iowa Association of Railroad
Passengers says his group is encouraged about the expanded Amtrak service
being proposed today (Tuesday), which would include more service for Iowa.
Henry C. Wulff of Urbandale says, "The main benefit to Iowa is service to
Iowa City and Des Moines. We are very positive about this plan."
Wulff went on to say, "Amtrak's strategy is now shifting from cutting costs
and services to a concept with a market-driven route strategy that
emphasizes expanded services and income.
Wulff says, "Amtrak is taking aggressive stance in pursuing new
opportunities and increasing its market share of travelers.
"Amtrak is emphasizing improving hubs and connections between trains. This
is a key part of the previously proposed Midwest Regional Rail System which
would have an significant positive impact on Iowa's passenger
transportation system."
"Amtrak is looking to use mail and express revenues to increase operational
profitability so that it can continue to provide service and grow."
Wulff says, "We urge the traveling public to support this plan and let
their public officials know they support this plan."
"Iowa must have a balanced transportation system to respond to its future
needs. Expanded passenger rail service is an important part of that
balanced system."
The Iowa Association of Railroad Passengers is a statewide, non-profit
citizens' organization which supports rail passenger service--both
commercial and tourist service. IARP supports a solid rail infrastructure,
quality freight service by rail and intermodal. The group was formed in
1981 to strengthen the voice of the rail user in Iowa. The group meets at
various locations throughout the state.
The organization is affiliated with the National Association of Railroad
Passengers in Washington, D.C. Membership information is available by
writing to the Iowa Association of Railroad Passengers, 3349 Southgate
Court, SW, Suite #108, Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52404-5424 or by calling (319)
362-6824.
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